Meet the Sisters

Sister Ruth Yost

Current Ministry and Interests: During my 50 years of active ministry, I served in education, health care and administration. I am still interested in education and health issues, but my own health limits activity pretty well to prayer and letter writing especially in the area of social justice.

Favorite quotation from Scripture and/or Rule: It is hard to choose a favorite. I love Jesus' last discourse telling of His love for us. Our relationship to Jesus as branches to the vine is so strengthening, supportive, motivating ... So also "It was not you who chose me. It was I who who chose you." John 15:16. Also "As we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delights of love." from the Prologue to the Rule: 49.

Monastic life at St. Walburg Monastery: I am very happy in my monastic life here. We are blessed with a vital commitment to beautiful liturgy in the Eucharist and Liturgy of the Hours. Also, we sincerely strive to live out our Benedictine charism of love and support of one another in community.

What I value about community life: I greatly value being bonded with other women who are committed to seeking God in Benedictine monastic life. Sharing prayer, meals, work--the search--with them can be a challenge because we each are a unique person, but the sharing gives such meaning to my own journey along the path to God.

What Benedictine women have to offer to the world today: I think our monasteries can become places of peace, prayer and beautiful liturgy where people can come to find quiet for prayerful reflection and direction in their lives. I also think that a model of stability in community is a value in today's culture.